The Knockmealdown Mountains

The Knockmealdown Mountains are a magical mountain range within easy striking distance of Dungarvan. Located on the border of Co. Waterford and South Tipperary, the range runs east/west between the two counties.

The peak of the range is Knockmealdown which is situated in County Waterford. On the western side of the summit, the range is crossed by a high pass through which runs the old mail coach road from Lismore to Clogheen. Here you’ll find the county’s highest point, at 794m. The Knockmealdowns are dry and heathery underfoot, and an important breeding ground for two endangered species - the red grouse and the hen harrier. Cuckoo, nightjar, crossbill, buzzard and grasshopper warbler can all be found here, and the mountains are abloom with wildflowers in May and June, leaving visitors both ensconced in, and surrounded by wonderful views.

“A little slice of heaven, put it like that,” is how travel writer Christopher Somerville described it in a walking series for The Irish Independent. “This is a view to make anyone stop and stare.”

For those who want to take it at a more leisurely pace, there are several driving routes well signposted throughout the area too.